‘A year of loss’

Judge Elizabeth MacGrath was remembered at Nenagh District Court as Christmas wishes of goodwill were exchanged with a sense of sadness.

As has become the customary practice at the last court sitting before Christmas, President of the Tipperary Solicitors Bar Association Mariea Flanagan addressed the court before commencement of the day's proceedings. She wished a happy Christmas to Judge Marie Keane and her family, as well as the local gardaí, court and probation staff, the press and public.

Ms Flanagan reflected on a “strange year”, one of success and loss. She acknowledged the appointment of David Peters as State Solicitor and wished him well, but also the untimely death of Judge MacGrath in July. Ms Flanagan said the thoughts of all present were with Judge MacGrath's husband Charles Stanley Smith and family at this time.

On behalf of the Garda Síochána, Sergeant Regina McCarthy wished a happy Christmas and new year to all present. It was, Sgt McCarthy said, a very different year to the one they had envisaged at the end of 2023. The Hospice Christmas Tree of Remembrance outside the courthouse held much more significance this year, she said, sharing thoughts and prayers with Charles and Judge MacGrath's family at what would be a very difficult time of year for them.

Judge Marie Keane joined in the well-wishes and thanked those present for their co-operation since her arrival as District Court Judge in Nenagh. She also took the opportunity to remember Judge MacGrath.

“It was a year of loss, most poignantly that of Judge Elizabeth MacGrath. This should have been a very different day,” Judge Keane said, mentioning that it had been her predecessor's intention to announce her retirement.

“She has left a legacy and there is a duty on all of us to honour that legacy,” Judge Keane said.